Karangahake Gorge Tours

Photo provided by Destination Coromandel
Photo provided by Destination Coromandel
Photo provided by Destination Coromandel
Photo provided by Destination Coromandel
Photo provided by Destination Coromandel


Explore this rainforest gorge which has tunnels hollowed out by gold miners a rushing river, and calm pools that provide an excellent spot for swimming in the summer.

Karangahake Gorge is known for its forest walk. Hike through remnants of gold mining pumps, glow worm inhabited tunnels, and old railways in this gorge carved out by the power of the Ohinemuri River. The walk from the park’s entry over a suspension bridge to its end at Waikino Station is roughly 4.5 miles (seven kilometers). Informational signposts along the way fill you in on the history of the area. There are shorter loop walks and parts of the track near to Waikino Station are accessible by car.

Don’t miss the Rail Tunnel loop walk. Carved into the rock, the half-mile (1 kilometre) tunnel features windows once used to dump waste, but now giving walkers a spectacular view out over the gorge. Explore the underground pump house where you’ll see remnants of mining machinery. If you search carefully, you’ll see glow worms on the roof. Pack a torch for this section of the walk.

Halfway from Karangahake to Waikino deeper in the New Zealand rainforest is the Owharoa Falls area. Falls Retreat offers accommodation and bistro dining in a forest setting. Further on at the Victoria Battery Mine Railway and Museum, you’ll get an idea of just how big this gold mining operation was. In the early 1900s it was producing over half of New Zealand’s gold. Take a tour of the tunnels, see where the quartz was burned and crushed, or jump on a tram to explore the area. The Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway is also open to cyclists.

There is a cluster of accommodation, a winery and restaurant at Karangahake, just off State Highway 2, near where the tracks begin. Train enthusiasts can take a little extra time to ride the heritage railway on vintage trains from Waikino Station to Waihi.

Get to Karangahake Gorge by rental car or tour. Once there, explore the region by bike, car or on foot.

Plan a trip to see Karangahake Gorge

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Backpackers Central Hamilton
The Clements Hotel
BRUNTWOODLODGE - Adults Only

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Karangahake Gorge

Pedlars Motel

Pedlars Motel

3.5 out of 5
2a Arney St, Paeroa
Pedlars Motel
Palm Motel Waihi

Palm Motel Waihi

3 out of 5
123 Parry Palm Avenue, Formerly 2 Parry Palm Avenue, Waihi
Palm Motel Waihi
Waihi Cottage Entertainment

Waihi Cottage Entertainment

Waihi
Waihi Cottage Entertainment
Goldmine Motel

Goldmine Motel

3 out of 5
6 Victoria St, Waihi, Waikato
Goldmine Motel
Te Aroha Motel

Te Aroha Motel

2.5 out of 5
108 WHITAKER STREET, Te Aroha, Waikato
Te Aroha Motel
Tasman Holiday Parks – Waihi Beach

Tasman Holiday Parks – Waihi Beach

4.5 out of 5
15 Beach Road, Waihi Beach
Tasman Holiday Parks – Waihi Beach
Relax Waihi Beach Style.

Relax Waihi Beach Style.

Waihi Beach
Relax Waihi Beach Style.
Tasman Holiday Parks – Beachaven

Tasman Holiday Parks – Beachaven

3.5 out of 5
21 Leo Street, Waihi Beach
Tasman Holiday Parks – Beachaven
SNAZZY!  Right in the middle of the action!

SNAZZY! Right in the middle of the action!

Waihi Beach
SNAZZY! Right in the middle of the action!
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Karangahake Gorge

Karangahake Gorge offers a variety of exciting activities such as hiking and biking along its scenic tracks, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can embark on a memorable hiking adventure, exploring the stunning landscapes and historical sites of the gorge. For those looking to relax, nearby spa options provide a soothing retreat after a day of exploration. Make sure to plan your trip to Karangahake Gorge for an unforgettable experience in New Zealand's natural beauty.

Food and drinks

For a taste of local wines, visit Leveret Estate Winery or Mills Reef Winery, both offering romantic vibes and entertainment just 17 miles from Karangahake Gorge. Enjoy a scenic experience while savoring exquisite wines in a beautiful setting.

Recreation

At Fairview Golf Course, located 15 miles from Karangahake Gorge, indulge in a day of relaxation amidst beautiful landscapes. Play a round of golf or enjoy outdoor activities, all while soaking in the serene atmosphere that promotes wellness and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Hike the Wharawhara Track, located 13 miles from Karangahake Gorge, for a thrilling outdoor experience. Enjoy picturesque scenery and immerse yourself in the adventure vibes as you explore the lush trails and stunning landscapes of this beautiful area.

Find the best attractions near Karangahake Gorge

Karangahake Gorge offers a stunning blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, perfect for travelers seeking to explore the natural beauty of New Zealand's North Island. Popular activities include hiking around Mt. Karangahake and visiting the picturesque Coromandel Peninsula. Don't miss the iconic Twin Towers, which add to the area's charm. Whether you're looking for mountain views or a beach experience, this region is packed with attractions to enjoy.

  • Owharoa Falls: Just 2 miles from Karangahake Gorge, Owharoa Falls offers a romantic outdoor setting perfect for adventure seekers. The stunning waterfall cascades down rocky cliffs, providing a picturesque backdrop for photography and a refreshing spot for a picnic.
  • Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park: Located 7 miles away, this expansive reserve is known for its friendly atmosphere and lush greenery. Explore numerous walking trails, discover diverse flora and fauna, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
  • Te Aroha Leisure Pools: Situated 8 miles from Karangahake Gorge, this hot spring is a haven for wellness and relaxation. Enjoy soaking in the therapeutic mineral waters while surrounded by beautiful outdoor scenery, making it a perfect spot to unwind.

Best time to go to Karangahake Gorge

The best time to visit Karangahake Gorge is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January65.1°F (18.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
February65.7°F (18.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
March63.0°F (17.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
April59.5°F (15.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May55.4°F (13.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
June52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
July50.2°F (10.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August50.5°F (10.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
September52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
November58.6°F (14.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December62.6°F (17.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Karangahake Gorge

To save money on your trip to Karangahake Gorge, consider visiting during the off-peak months of August and October to November, when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best deals, and check out Expedia's last-minute offers for additional savings. Use Expedia’s price filter to find budget-friendly options, and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for extra discounts. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also earn you exclusive deals and future cash rewards for your stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Karangahake Gorge are August and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January, April and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Karangahake Gorge about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Karangahake Gorge with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.